The City of Salina's Community and Development Services Department has announced temporary changes to its operation.

According to information from the city, the department is operating in a limited capacity and modifying public services for the next 30 days due to:

•Circumstances related to public health and COVID-19

•The Stay-at-Home Order effective March 30, 2020, by Governor Laura Kelly, which will remain in effect through April 19 (order may be extended as circumstances dictate)

•The Safer-at-Home Order effective March 30, 2020, by Saline County, which will remain in effect through April 29 (order may be extended as circumstances dictate)

•The City County Building, 300 W. Ash Street, is closed to the public

Note, it is very important for citizens to follow the outlined methods of communication. These systems have been put in place to ensure services during these unique circumstances, failure to adhere may affect staff’s ability to assist citizens.

None of the changes/limitations to the services the department provides exempt citizens from complying with the code requirements for permits, inspections, zoning, land development, or property maintenance.

•The department will continue to accept and process building and trades permits.

•Citizens must use the permit web portal to submit a permit request/application.

•Review and processing of a permit application may take longer than usual. The department will make every attempt to clearly communicate with citizens regarding timelines and expectations.

•The department will continue to provide inspections for issued permits with one exception.

•Due to possible health risks for inspectors, the department will not conduct inspections inside occupied dwellings, unless it is an emergency.

•Inspection requests can be submitted via the permit web portal, email, or phone (785-309-5701). If the call is not answered, a staff member will return the call within 24 hours.

•In response to the COVID-19 public health emergency and based upon the governor’s executive order prohibiting mass gatherings of 10 or more people, the city commission has cancelled all meetings of the city’s subordinate boards and committees for so long as any federal, state, or local order similarly limiting mass gatherings remains in effect, including all meetings and public hearings conducted by planning boards.

Planning boards include: Planning Commission, Design Review Board, Heritage Commission, and Board of Zoning Appeals.

•Until meetings and public hearings to be conducted by planning boards can be predictably scheduled and required notifications be given, the department will not be able to accept or process new planning applications (variances, conditional use permits, zoning, etc.).

•When meetings of the planning boards can resume, the department will post on the city’s website new and revised meeting schedules for public hearings and will resume acceptance and processing of new planning applications. The best way for citizens to be informed about public meetings is to sign up for email notifications on the city’s website.

•These will be handled on a case by case basis.

•Applications for tax rebates under the city’s neighborhood revitalization program will not be accepted.

CODE ENFORCEMENT/PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

•The department will continue to provide services related to nuisance code enforcement (property maintenance) as staffing and scheduling allows.

•A property owner (or tenant) must still maintain their property including mowing.

•To schedule a special pick up of trash, debris, or discarded furniture/appliances call 785-309-5750.

•The Community Relations Division offices are temporarily closed.

•Use the department portal: https://salina.onlama.com/

This is available 24/7 and submittals will be checked daily.

The department will attempt to return calls within 24 hours or sooner. Citizens must leave a message. Include in the message the property address the call is about, your name and return phone number.

•E-mail: <a href="mailto:building.services@salina.org">building.services@salina.org</a>

The department will respond to e-mail within 24 hours or sooner.

Include the property address that is being inquired about.

The department’s goal is to continue providing necessary services to all citizens while balancing the safety of employees and the directives of the stay-at-home order. The department appreciates patience and understanding during these difficult times. 

The City of Salina's Community and Development Services Department has announced temporary changes to its operation.According to information from the city, the department is operating in a limited capacity and modifying public services for the next 30 days due to:•Circumstances related to public health and COVID-19•The Stay-at-Home Order effective March 30, 2020, by Governor Laura Kelly, which will remain in effect through April 19 (order may be extended as circumstances dictate)•The Safer-at-Home Order effective March 30, 2020, by Saline County, which will remain in effect through April 29 (order may be extended as circumstances dictate)•The City County Building, 300 W. Ash Street, is closed to the publicMethods of CommunicationNote, it is very important for citizens to follow the outlined methods of communication. These systems have been put in place to ensure services during these unique circumstances, failure to adhere may affect staff’s ability to assist citizens.None of the changes/limitations to the services the department provides exempt citizens from complying with the code requirements for permits, inspections, zoning, land development, or property maintenance.PERMITS•The department will continue to accept and process building and trades permits.•Citizens must use the permit web portal to submit a permit request/application.•Review and processing of a permit application may take longer than usual. The department will make every attempt to clearly communicate with citizens regarding timelines and expectations.INSPECTIONS•The department will continue to provide inspections for issued permits with one exception.•Due to possible health risks for inspectors, the department will not conduct inspections inside occupied dwellings, unless it is an emergency.•Inspection requests can be submitted via the permit web portal, email, or phone (785-309-5701). If the call is not answered, a staff member will return the call within 24 hours.PLANNING•In response to the COVID-19 public health emergency and based upon the governor’s executive order prohibiting mass gatherings of 10 or more people, the city commission has cancelled all meetings of the city’s subordinate boards and committees for so long as any federal, state, or local order similarly limiting mass gatherings remains in effect, including all meetings and public hearings conducted by planning boards.Planning boards include: Planning Commission, Design Review Board, Heritage Commission, and Board of Zoning Appeals.•Until meetings and public hearings to be conducted by planning boards can be predictably scheduled and required notifications be given, the department will not be able to accept or process new planning applications (variances, conditional use permits, zoning, etc.).•When meetings of the planning boards can resume, the department will post on the city’s website new and revised meeting schedules for public hearings and will resume acceptance and processing of new planning applications. The best way for citizens to be informed about public meetings is to sign up for email notifications on the city’s website.ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVES•These will be handled on a case by case basis.•Applications for tax rebates under the city’s neighborhood revitalization program will not be accepted.•E-mail staff for further information.CODE ENFORCEMENT/PROPERTY MAINTENANCE•The department will continue to provide services related to nuisance code enforcement (property maintenance) as staffing and scheduling allows.•A property owner (or tenant) must still maintain their property including mowing.•To schedule a special pick up of trash, debris, or discarded furniture/appliances call 785-309-5750.COMMUNITY RELATIONS•The Community Relations Division offices are temporarily closed.WAYS TO CONTACT THE DEPARTMENT•Use the department portal: https://salina.onlama.com/This is available 24/7 and submittals will be checked daily.•Phone: 785-309-5715The department will attempt to return calls within 24 hours or sooner. Citizens must leave a message. Include in the message the property address the call is about, your name and return phone number.•E-mail: <a href="mailto:building.services@salina.org">building.services@salina.org</a>The department will respond to e-mail within 24 hours or sooner.Include the property address that is being inquired about.The department’s goal is to continue providing necessary services to all citizens while balancing the safety of employees and the directives of the stay-at-home order. The department appreciates patience and understanding during these difficult times.

City's CDSD modifies public services until further notice

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate has twisted itself into knots over President Donald Trump’s new coronavirus aid request, as Democrats refused to rubber stamp his proposal for $250 billion more to boost small businesses, demanding modifications along with an additional $250 billion for health care providers and states. Republicans wouldn’t go along.

The standoff Thursday doesn’t end the pursuit of more rescue funds, but it came as the government reported that 6.6 million more people filed for unemployment benefits last week, increasing worries that the economy is sliding toward a severe recession. The small business program at issue is off to a rocky rollout.

GOP leader Mitch McConnell sought to keep Thursday’s debate limited to Trump’s request and wouldn’t accept Democratic additions. Even if the GOP plan had succeeded in the Senate, the Democratic-controlled House is determined to make changes to ensure small businesses in minority communities benefit from the burst of government funding.

Democrats and Republicans agree the aid is urgently needed and talks are sure to continue, but it reinforces that Congress and the White House will need to find bipartisan agreement — especially with lawmakers scattered in their states and districts and both the House and Senate unable to conduct roll-call votes.

“Nobody thinks this will be the Senate’s last word on COVID-19," McConnell said. “Let’s continue to work together, with speed and bipartisanship. We will get through this crisis together.”

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi declared the Senate vote merely a “stunt" as the country faces an “epic” crisis. She ridiculed the administration for trying to jam a $250 billion request through Congress with 48 hours notice with little data to back it up.

“Really?” Pelosi said on a conference call with reporters.

The stall comes as communities across the nation strain to meet health care needs and salvage local economies pummeled by the crisis. A new jobless report shows a whopping 16.8 million Americans are now out of work.

The massive infusions of federal cash — the $250 billion sought by the administration would come on top of combined legislation already totaling about $2.5 trillion -- are intended as a patch to help the $21 trillion U.S. economy through the current recession, which is causing an economic contraction and a spike in joblessness that is overwhelming many state systems for delivering unemployment benefits.

With Congress all but shuttered — and unlikely to return April 20, as planned — lawmakers pledged to keep negotiating with the White House.

McConnell and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin say the “paycheck protection” program, which involves direct subsidies to companies to keep employees on payroll and pay company rent, is on track to quickly deplete its first $350 billion infusion as businesses rush to apply for the aid.

Democrats are not opposed to boosting the payroll fund, but they want to ensure that the new program delivers benefits to businesses in minority communities that are often under-served by traditional lenders.

“What the secretary requested and the bill that the Senate majority leader brought to the floor would never pass the House,” she said. “It is a basis for some negotiation.”

Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., accused McConnell of trying to ram through legislation and detailed a variety of glitches in the program, including fears that many big lenders are not serving minority neighborhoods.

Democrats are pressing for half of the White House request, or $125 billion, to be channeled through community-based financial institutions that serve farmers and family-, women-, minority- and veteran-owned small businesses and nonprofits in rural, tribal, suburban and urban communities.

They circulated a $500 billion plan that would include the Trump request and add $100 billion for hospitals and other health care providers and $150 billion to state and local governments, as well as a 15% boost in food stamp benefits. They hope this serves as a basis for talks with McConnell going forward.

With Capitol Hill virtually shut down, legislation is most easily passed through unanimous agreement, which is often not an easy task.

Another complication is lone wolf Republican Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, who promises to block efforts to pass such huge legislation through the House without lawmakers present and ready to vote. The Senate is used to passing legislation by unanimous consent, but the House is more typically driven by the majority party imposing its will.

Pelosi said McConnell’s request “simply can’t” advance through the Democratic-controlled House under unanimous consent.

The future of the legislation is likely to be largely determined by a small, familiar group of senior Washington hands, including Pelosi, McConnell and Mnuchin, along with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.

Vice President Mike Pence convened another day of conference calls with lawmakers and the coronavirus task force, talking separately with Senate Republicans and Democrats, on the crisis and federal response.

The Senate convened for the brief pro-forma session with just four senators present — none in masks — to consider the dueling proposals.

Senate Sen. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., who presided over the brief session, told reporters it is “unlikely” the chamber will reopen April 20 as planned.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586471272238.png" alt="President Trump arrives for Thursday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing-image courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>President Trump arrives for Thursday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing-image courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate has twisted itself into knots over President Donald Trump’s new coronavirus aid request, as Democrats refused to rubber stamp his proposal for $250 billion more to boost small businesses, demanding modifications along with an additional $250 billion for health care providers and states. Republicans wouldn’t go along.The standoff Thursday doesn’t end the pursuit of more rescue funds, but it came as the government reported that 6.6 million more people filed for unemployment benefits last week, increasing worries that the economy is sliding toward a severe recession. The small business program at issue is off to a rocky rollout.GOP leader Mitch McConnell sought to keep Thursday’s debate limited to Trump’s request and wouldn’t accept Democratic additions. Even if the GOP plan had succeeded in the Senate, the Democratic-controlled House is determined to make changes to ensure small businesses in minority communities benefit from the burst of government funding.Democrats and Republicans agree the aid is urgently needed and talks are sure to continue, but it reinforces that Congress and the White House will need to find bipartisan agreement — especially with lawmakers scattered in their states and districts and both the House and Senate unable to conduct roll-call votes.“Nobody thinks this will be the Senate’s last word on COVID-19," McConnell said. “Let’s continue to work together, with speed and bipartisanship. We will get through this crisis together.”House Speaker Nancy Pelosi declared the Senate vote merely a “stunt" as the country faces an “epic” crisis. She ridiculed the administration for trying to jam a $250 billion request through Congress with 48 hours notice with little data to back it up.“Really?” Pelosi said on a conference call with reporters.The stall comes as communities across the nation strain to meet health care needs and salvage local economies pummeled by the crisis. A new jobless report shows a whopping 16.8 million Americans are now out of work.The massive infusions of federal cash — the $250 billion sought by the administration would come on top of combined legislation already totaling about $2.5 trillion -- are intended as a patch to help the $21 trillion U.S. economy through the current recession, which is causing an economic contraction and a spike in joblessness that is overwhelming many state systems for delivering unemployment benefits.With Congress all but shuttered — and unlikely to return April 20, as planned — lawmakers pledged to keep negotiating with the White House.McConnell and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin say the “paycheck protection” program, which involves direct subsidies to companies to keep employees on payroll and pay company rent, is on track to quickly deplete its first $350 billion infusion as businesses rush to apply for the aid.Democrats are not opposed to boosting the payroll fund, but they want to ensure that the new program delivers benefits to businesses in minority communities that are often under-served by traditional lenders.“What the secretary requested and the bill that the Senate majority leader brought to the floor would never pass the House,” she said. “It is a basis for some negotiation.”Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., accused McConnell of trying to ram through legislation and detailed a variety of glitches in the program, including fears that many big lenders are not serving minority neighborhoods.Democrats are pressing for half of the White House request, or $125 billion, to be channeled through community-based financial institutions that serve farmers and family-, women-, minority- and veteran-owned small businesses and nonprofits in rural, tribal, suburban and urban communities.They circulated a $500 billion plan that would include the Trump request and add $100 billion for hospitals and other health care providers and $150 billion to state and local governments, as well as a 15% boost in food stamp benefits. They hope this serves as a basis for talks with McConnell going forward.With Capitol Hill virtually shut down, legislation is most easily passed through unanimous agreement, which is often not an easy task.Another complication is lone wolf Republican Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, who promises to block efforts to pass such huge legislation through the House without lawmakers present and ready to vote. The Senate is used to passing legislation by unanimous consent, but the House is more typically driven by the majority party imposing its will.Pelosi said McConnell’s request “simply can’t” advance through the Democratic-controlled House under unanimous consent.The future of the legislation is likely to be largely determined by a small, familiar group of senior Washington hands, including Pelosi, McConnell and Mnuchin, along with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.Vice President Mike Pence convened another day of conference calls with lawmakers and the coronavirus task force, talking separately with Senate Republicans and Democrats, on the crisis and federal response.The Senate convened for the brief pro-forma session with just four senators present — none in masks — to consider the dueling proposals.Senate Sen. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., who presided over the brief session, told reporters it is “unlikely” the chamber will reopen April 20 as planned.___

Senators block new virus aid, Pelosi decries 'stunt'

By&nbsp;JIM MCLEAN, Kansas News Service

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly is suing a GOP-led panel of legislative leaders that blocked her executive order limiting religious services and funerals to 10 or fewer people.&nbsp;

The Democrat also said Thursday that it isn’t clear whether her previous order from late March, meant to stop the spread of COVID-19, is still in effect. The attorney general has said he believes so.&nbsp;

Kelly said that her legal team thinks only the full Legislature can revoke an executive order, not the Legislative Coordinating Council. She wants the state Supreme Court to take up the issue quickly.&nbsp;

Kelly expanded her initial restrictions on gatherings&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/sites/kcur/files/eo_20-14_executed.pdf">from March 24</a>&nbsp;to include church services. It took effect Wednesday, and applied to attendees, but not choirs, ministers or others who were taking part in a ceremony.&nbsp;

With Easter services just days away, five Republican legislative leaders contended the move was an unconstitutional restriction on worship. Attorney General Derek Schmidt said his office suggested Kelly issued an “overreaching executive order.” Based on advice from her chief counsel, Kelly said she believed the expansion was legal.

Many churches already had canceled services or had moved them online. But by Wednesday afternoon, all of the Republicans on the seven-member Legislative Coordinating Council&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-gop-upends-gov-kelly-s-limits-church-services-and-potentially-all-gatherings">voted to rescind Kelly’s executive order</a>.&nbsp;

Not long after, Kelly held a news conference in which she called the decision “shockingly irresponsible” and said her legal team was looking into their options. Schmidt later issued a statement that said the original executive order from March 24 was still in effect because the one that limited church gatherings and funerals hadn’t yet been published in the Kansas Register.

Before Thursday's news conference, Kelly's official Facebook page addressed the situation, saying that the "physical church ... has never defined Kansans' deep and abiding faith."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586465261139.png" alt="Kansas Governor Laura Kelly during Thursday's news conference on the decision to fight the GOP-led legislative leaders in court" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly during Thursday's news conference on the decision to fight the GOP-led legislative leaders in court</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;JIM MCLEAN, Kansas News ServiceKansas Gov. Laura Kelly is suing a GOP-led panel of legislative leaders that blocked her executive order limiting religious services and funerals to 10 or fewer people.&nbsp;(audio begins at 2:20)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovLauraKelly%2Fvideos%2F155161369154168%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The Democrat also said Thursday that it isn’t clear whether her previous order from late March, meant to stop the spread of COVID-19, is still in effect. The attorney general has said he believes so.&nbsp;Kelly said that her legal team thinks only the full Legislature can revoke an executive order, not the Legislative Coordinating Council. She wants the state Supreme Court to take up the issue quickly.&nbsp;Kelly expanded her initial restrictions on gatherings&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/sites/kcur/files/eo_20-14_executed.pdf">from March 24</a>&nbsp;to include church services. It took effect Wednesday, and applied to attendees, but not choirs, ministers or others who were taking part in a ceremony.&nbsp;With Easter services just days away, five Republican legislative leaders contended the move was an unconstitutional restriction on worship. Attorney General Derek Schmidt said his office suggested Kelly issued an “overreaching executive order.” Based on advice from her chief counsel, Kelly said she believed the expansion was legal.Many churches already had canceled services or had moved them online. But by Wednesday afternoon, all of the Republicans on the seven-member Legislative Coordinating Council&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-gop-upends-gov-kelly-s-limits-church-services-and-potentially-all-gatherings">voted to rescind Kelly’s executive order</a>.&nbsp;Not long after, Kelly held a news conference in which she called the decision “shockingly irresponsible” and said her legal team was looking into their options. Schmidt later issued a statement that said the original executive order from March 24 was still in effect because the one that limited church gatherings and funerals hadn’t yet been published in the Kansas Register.Before Thursday's news conference, Kelly's official Facebook page addressed the situation, saying that the "physical church ... has never defined Kansans' deep and abiding faith."

 🎥 Kan. Gov. goes to court to keep ban on large gatherings, including church

MCPHERSON – Due to the increasing amount of COVID-19 cases in McPherson County without a history of travel, McPherson County Health Department believes it is likely that the disease is spread person to person, indicating community spread.

McPherson County Health Department defines community spread as five or more cases not related to travel.

The local health department has also identified a positive case of COVID-19 involving an employee at Dillons, 1320 North Main Street in McPherson. While the employee was not symptomatic while at work, the individual was at work immediately prior to symptoms. Those who shopped at the above Dillons store on March 31, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. or April 1 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. may have been exposed to COVID-19.

Symptoms for COVID-19 appear 2-14 days after exposure and include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.

Other rarer symptoms that may develop include malaise, sore throat, and diarrhea. If you develop any of these symptoms, but are not ill enough to seek medical care, you must stay home for at least 7 days after symptoms started or for 72 hours after fever is gone (without the use of fever-reducing medication) and with significant improvement in symptoms, whichever is longer. If you develop these symptoms and need to seek medical care, call your healthcare provider beforehand and inform them that you may have been exposed to COVID-19 and require medical attention.

If you were at the above Dillons store during these specific dates and develop symptoms consistent with COVID-19 between 2 and 14 days later, please call your health care provider. If you do not have a provider, please call your local hospital or the McPherson County Health Department at 620-241-1753 or email <a href="mailto:machd@mcphersoncountyks.us">machd@mcphersoncountyks.us</a>.

“We’ve been informed by an associate at our McPherson store, who has tested positive for COVID-19,” said Sheila Lowrie, Dillon Stores spokeswoman. “We are supporting our associate with an emergency paid leave and share our best for quick recovery. Upon learning of this case, we followed all sanitation and cleaning procedures as recommended by the CDC, communicated with, and supported our store team. We will continue to follow guidance from local, state and federal agencies, including the CDC and other health organizations.”

Steps in action and completed at Dillons include:

•Completing a deep cleaning and sanitation of the store.

•Enhanced our daily sanitation practices, including increased frequency of cleaning commonly used areas such as cashier stations, self-checkouts, credit card terminals, food service counters, carts, and hand baskets. 

•Provided masks and gloves to our associates to wear at work.

•Established hand-washing rotation for front-end associates to allow for an opportunity to wash hands and rehydrate. Hand sanitizer continues to be available.

•Installed plexiglass partitions at check lanes, pharmacy and customer service locations to further limit close interpersonal contact between associates and customers during this time.

•Added floor decals and signage to promote safe physical distancing.

•Adopted limits to the number of customers entering our stores at one time.

•Reduced store operations hours to allow for associates to rest, clean, and stock the stores. Additionally, designated hours for seniors and higher-risk customer have been implemented.

McPherson County residents are encouraged to help the community and our health care system flatten the curve and slow the spread of coronavirus. They can do this by:

•Washing your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water.

MCPHERSON – Due to the increasing amount of COVID-19 cases in McPherson County without a history of travel, McPherson County Health Department believes it is likely that the disease is spread person to person, indicating community spread.McPherson County Health Department defines community spread as five or more cases not related to travel.The local health department has also identified a positive case of COVID-19 involving an employee at Dillons, 1320 North Main Street in McPherson. While the employee was not symptomatic while at work, the individual was at work immediately prior to symptoms. Those who shopped at the above Dillons store on March 31, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. or April 1 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. may have been exposed to COVID-19.Symptoms for COVID-19 appear 2-14 days after exposure and include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.Other rarer symptoms that may develop include malaise, sore throat, and diarrhea. If you develop any of these symptoms, but are not ill enough to seek medical care, you must stay home for at least 7 days after symptoms started or for 72 hours after fever is gone (without the use of fever-reducing medication) and with significant improvement in symptoms, whichever is longer. If you develop these symptoms and need to seek medical care, call your healthcare provider beforehand and inform them that you may have been exposed to COVID-19 and require medical attention.If you were at the above Dillons store during these specific dates and develop symptoms consistent with COVID-19 between 2 and 14 days later, please call your health care provider. If you do not have a provider, please call your local hospital or the McPherson County Health Department at 620-241-1753 or email <a href="mailto:machd@mcphersoncountyks.us">machd@mcphersoncountyks.us</a>.“We’ve been informed by an associate at our McPherson store, who has tested positive for COVID-19,” said Sheila Lowrie, Dillon Stores spokeswoman. “We are supporting our associate with an emergency paid leave and share our best for quick recovery. Upon learning of this case, we followed all sanitation and cleaning procedures as recommended by the CDC, communicated with, and supported our store team. We will continue to follow guidance from local, state and federal agencies, including the CDC and other health organizations.”Steps in action and completed at Dillons include:•Completing a deep cleaning and sanitation of the store.•Enhanced our daily sanitation practices, including increased frequency of cleaning commonly used areas such as cashier stations, self-checkouts, credit card terminals, food service counters, carts, and hand baskets. •Provided masks and gloves to our associates to wear at work.•Established hand-washing rotation for front-end associates to allow for an opportunity to wash hands and rehydrate. Hand sanitizer continues to be available.•Installed plexiglass partitions at check lanes, pharmacy and customer service locations to further limit close interpersonal contact between associates and customers during this time.•Added floor decals and signage to promote safe physical distancing.•Adopted limits to the number of customers entering our stores at one time.•Reduced store operations hours to allow for associates to rest, clean, and stock the stores. Additionally, designated hours for seniors and higher-risk customer have been implemented.McPherson County residents are encouraged to help the community and our health care system flatten the curve and slow the spread of coronavirus. They can do this by:•Following the Stay-At-Home Order•Covering all coughs and sneezes.•Washing your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water.

McPherson County cites community spread

WASHINGTON — Dr. Anthony Fauci, the top U.S. infectious disease expert, says don’t assume the coronavirus will fade during warm weather.

Fauci told ABC’s “Good Morning America” there’s precedent with other infections like influenza that “when the virus gets warmer that the virus goes down in its ability to replicate, to spread.”

But Fauci added “having said that, one should not assume that we are going to be rescued by a change in the weather. You must assume that the virus will continue to do its thing. If we get some help from the weather, so be it, fine. But I don’t think we need to assume that.”

He was asked about the New York Times story that research indicates the coronavirus that began circulating in New York in mid-February came mainly from Europe, not Asia.

“I think that’s probably correct,” Fauci said. He notes that “Europe became the epicenter pretty quickly after China really exploded with their cases.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586435843632.png" alt="Dr. Anthony Fauci answers questions during Wednesday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing -photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Anthony Fauci answers questions during Wednesday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing -photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON — Dr. Anthony Fauci, the top U.S. infectious disease expert, says don’t assume the coronavirus will fade during warm weather.Fauci told ABC’s “Good Morning America” there’s precedent with other infections like influenza that “when the virus gets warmer that the virus goes down in its ability to replicate, to spread.”But Fauci added “having said that, one should not assume that we are going to be rescued by a change in the weather. You must assume that the virus will continue to do its thing. If we get some help from the weather, so be it, fine. But I don’t think we need to assume that.”He was asked about the New York Times story that research indicates the coronavirus that began circulating in New York in mid-February came mainly from Europe, not Asia.“I think that’s probably correct,” Fauci said. He notes that “Europe became the epicenter pretty quickly after China really exploded with their cases.”___

Dr. Fauci: Don’t assume virus fades in warm weather

Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Thursday.

The Saline County Health Department does not have any additional positive cases of COVID-19 cases to report in Saline County.

At 11 am, KDHE reported a total of 1106 confirmed cases in Kansas and 42 deaths. Saline County has a total of 8 positive cases.

Governor Kelly’s Statewide Stay-at-Home order is still in effect. KDHE provided statistics regarding three outbreaks were associated with religious gatherings. These gatherings have resulted in 10 to 25 positive cases each, 14 hospitalizations, and 2 deaths. Social distancing is imperative. During this time of multiple faith traditions and secular celebrations, the Saline County Health Department encourages celebrating in new and socially distanced ways and making a small sacrifice to protect your loved ones.

It cannot be stressed enough the importance of staying home and only going out for essential tasks. Saline County continues to receive reports of alleged non-compliance with the Statewide Stay-at-Home order.

Alleged violations can be reported through our online submission form at <a href="http://www.saline.org">www.saline.org</a>. If you have a question about a business being essential or not, please visit the Governor’s website at <a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/keff">https://governor.kansas.gov/keff</a> to see the order, list of essential functions, and frequently asked questions.

Help our community in stopping the spread of this virus. Only follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>. Stay Safe, Stay Healthy and Stay at Home.

Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Thursday.The Saline County Health Department does not have any additional positive cases of COVID-19 cases to report in Saline County.At 11 am, KDHE reported a total of 1106 confirmed cases in Kansas and 42 deaths. Saline County has a total of 8 positive cases.Governor Kelly’s Statewide Stay-at-Home order is still in effect. KDHE provided statistics regarding three outbreaks were associated with religious gatherings. These gatherings have resulted in 10 to 25 positive cases each, 14 hospitalizations, and 2 deaths. Social distancing is imperative. During this time of multiple faith traditions and secular celebrations, the Saline County Health Department encourages celebrating in new and socially distanced ways and making a small sacrifice to protect your loved ones.It cannot be stressed enough the importance of staying home and only going out for essential tasks. Saline County continues to receive reports of alleged non-compliance with the Statewide Stay-at-Home order.Alleged violations can be reported through our online submission form at <a href="http://www.saline.org">www.saline.org</a>. If you have a question about a business being essential or not, please visit the Governor’s website at <a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/keff">https://governor.kansas.gov/keff</a> to see the order, list of essential functions, and frequently asked questions.Help our community in stopping the spread of this virus. Only follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>. Stay Safe, Stay Healthy and Stay at Home.

Saline County: No new COVID-19 cases confirmed

BELLEVILLE -- The Republic County Health Department announced today the county's fourth COVID-19 case, this time a child less than a year old.

According to a news release from the department, the child has no travel history and no underlying health conditions.

"Republic County Health Department is working to identify any close contacts of the individual and those who were exposed will be contacted as soon as possible," the department noted.

This was the fourth confirmed case of COVID-19 in Republic County in six days. The first case, a man in his 70s with no travel history, but underlying health conditions, was reported on Saturday. The second case, a woman in her 60s with no travel history or underlying health conditions, was reported on Monday. The third case, a man in his 70s with no travel history or underlying health conditions, was reported on Wednesday.

On Monday, the Republic County Health Officer ordered that county residents who traveled to the following counties that have been identified by the Kansas Depatment of Health and Environment as "widespread community transfer areas" were subject to 14-day isolation and quarantine.

The order also noted that "any planned travel going forward will also incur the same order for isolation and quarantine."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586469315782.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BELLEVILLE -- The Republic County Health Department announced today the county's fourth COVID-19 case, this time a child less than a year old.According to a news release from the department, the child has no travel history and no underlying health conditions."Republic County Health Department is working to identify any close contacts of the individual and those who were exposed will be contacted as soon as possible," the department noted.This was the fourth confirmed case of COVID-19 in Republic County in six days. The first case, a man in his 70s with no travel history, but underlying health conditions, was reported on Saturday. The second case, a woman in her 60s with no travel history or underlying health conditions, was reported on Monday. The third case, a man in his 70s with no travel history or underlying health conditions, was reported on Wednesday.On Monday, the Republic County Health Officer ordered that county residents who traveled to the following counties that have been identified by the Kansas Depatment of Health and Environment as "widespread community transfer areas" were subject to 14-day isolation and quarantine.Johnson CountyWyandotte CountyDouglas CountyLeavenworth CountySedgwick CountyCoffey CountyShawnee CountyThe order also noted that "any planned travel going forward will also incur the same order for isolation and quarantine."

Republic County: 4th case of COVID-19 an infant

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A civil rights group asked the Kansas Supreme Court on Thursday to immediately release prisoners who have preexisting medical conditions that make them vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas filed the class action petition on behalf of seven inmates being housed at Lansing Correctional Facility, the Ellsworth Correctional Facility and the Topeka Correctional Facility. They are seeking an expedited hearing before the state’s highest court on the request by the named plaintiffs and other Kansas inmates in a similar situation.

Rebecca Witte, the spokeswoman for the Kansas Department of Corrections, said the department would comment later on the filing.

“Petitioners are housed in crowded facilities with limited access to adequate medical treatment and sanitation supplies,” according to the petition. “Several petitioners also have preexisting medical conditions that make them uniquely vulnerable to serious complications and death if they contract the COVID-19 virus — which has already infected both staff and individuals housed within Kansas prisons.”

The lawsuit contends that the release would not only prevent harm to the medically vulnerable inmates, but would also sufficiently reduce the population at prison facilities to ensure proper social distancing and reduce transmission of the virus to inmates and the wider public.

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A civil rights group asked the Kansas Supreme Court on Thursday to immediately release prisoners who have preexisting medical conditions that make them vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus.The American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas filed the class action petition on behalf of seven inmates being housed at Lansing Correctional Facility, the Ellsworth Correctional Facility and the Topeka Correctional Facility. They are seeking an expedited hearing before the state’s highest court on the request by the named plaintiffs and other Kansas inmates in a similar situation.Rebecca Witte, the spokeswoman for the Kansas Department of Corrections, said the department would comment later on the filing.“Petitioners are housed in crowded facilities with limited access to adequate medical treatment and sanitation supplies,” according to the petition. “Several petitioners also have preexisting medical conditions that make them uniquely vulnerable to serious complications and death if they contract the COVID-19 virus — which has already infected both staff and individuals housed within Kansas prisons.”The lawsuit contends that the release would not only prevent harm to the medically vulnerable inmates, but would also sufficiently reduce the population at prison facilities to ensure proper social distancing and reduce transmission of the virus to inmates and the wider public.

ACLU seeks release of Kan. inmates vulnerable to COVID-19

Salina USD 305 announced today that all K-12 students will begin using Google Classroom on Tuesday.

Following is a copy of the information sent to all USD 305 parents and guardians concerning the district's latest learning initiatives.

Beginning April 14, all K-12 instruction will be online using Google Classroom.&nbsp;All USD 305 students now have a Chromebook. At this time, we do&nbsp;not&nbsp;plan to have additional K-8 packet distributions.

Between April 6 and 10, teachers worked to connect online with every student. This allowed us to identify families who are without internet. By Monday, April 13 the district will contact the families we have identified as needing internet access. We remain committed to eliminating the lack of internet access as a barrier.

Transitioning learning from our school buildings to your home wouldn’t have been successful without your partnership.&nbsp;Thank you. Remember that your building principal and our teachers are available to answer questions and work with you to ensure we are meeting your student’s needs.&nbsp;USD 305 remains committed to supporting you and your student in the weeks ahead.

Below are some questions and answers that you may find helpful.

Linn&nbsp;Exline, USD 305 Superintendent&nbsp;

Should I expect my students to spend the same amount of time in class as when they went to a school?&nbsp;

No. We are following KSDE guidance. Elementary school students will spend 45 minutes to 90 minutes a day.&nbsp; Secondary students will spend about 2.5 hours a week per class.&nbsp;

Does every student have a Chromebook?&nbsp;

Yes. Every USD 305 student now has a Chromebook.&nbsp;

How do families get Chromebooks connected to their internet?&nbsp;

Families may find help documents on our <a href="http://usd305.com">website</a>.&nbsp;Click the link for the&nbsp;Continuous Learning Resource Guide.&nbsp;For additional support, contact the teacher.

What is the budget impact of the Chromebooks for all K-12 students?&nbsp;

Providing a Chromebook to each student was budget neutral.&nbsp;At the high schools 1-to-1 was already in place. At middle school and elementary we were able to distribute classroom sets of Chromebooks to individual students.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Will all students have internet access?

Yes. We have identified solutions for our families who didn’t have home internet access.

Are Grab-and-Go lunches still offered?&nbsp;

Yes. Lunches are available from 11:30-12:30, Monday-Friday.&nbsp;Please see our <a href="http://usd305.com">website</a> for a list of locations.

Salina USD 305 announced today that all K-12 students will begin using Google Classroom on Tuesday.Following is a copy of the information sent to all USD 305 parents and guardians concerning the district's latest learning initiatives.Dear Parents and Guardians,Beginning April 14, all K-12 instruction will be online using Google Classroom.&nbsp;All USD 305 students now have a Chromebook. At this time, we do&nbsp;not&nbsp;plan to have additional K-8 packet distributions.Between April 6 and 10, teachers worked to connect online with every student. This allowed us to identify families who are without internet. By Monday, April 13 the district will contact the families we have identified as needing internet access. We remain committed to eliminating the lack of internet access as a barrier.Transitioning learning from our school buildings to your home wouldn’t have been successful without your partnership.&nbsp;Thank you. Remember that your building principal and our teachers are available to answer questions and work with you to ensure we are meeting your student’s needs.&nbsp;USD 305 remains committed to supporting you and your student in the weeks ahead.Below are some questions and answers that you may find helpful.Sincerely,Linn&nbsp;Exline, USD 305 Superintendent&nbsp;Should I expect my students to spend the same amount of time in class as when they went to a school?&nbsp;No. We are following KSDE guidance. Elementary school students will spend 45 minutes to 90 minutes a day.&nbsp; Secondary students will spend about 2.5 hours a week per class.&nbsp;Does every student have a Chromebook?&nbsp;Yes. Every USD 305 student now has a Chromebook.&nbsp;How do families get Chromebooks connected to their internet?&nbsp;Families may find help documents on our <a href="http://usd305.com">website</a>.&nbsp;Click the link for the&nbsp;Continuous Learning Resource Guide.&nbsp;For additional support, contact the teacher.What is the budget impact of the Chromebooks for all K-12 students?&nbsp;Providing a Chromebook to each student was budget neutral.&nbsp;At the high schools 1-to-1 was already in place. At middle school and elementary we were able to distribute classroom sets of Chromebooks to individual students.&nbsp;&nbsp;Will all students have internet access?Yes. We have identified solutions for our families who didn’t have home internet access.Are Grab-and-Go lunches still offered?&nbsp;Yes. Lunches are available from 11:30-12:30, Monday-Friday.&nbsp;Please see our <a href="http://usd305.com">website</a> for a list of locations.

USD 305: All K-12 students to begin using Google Classroom

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Strategic National Stockpile is nearly out of the N95 respirators, surgical masks, face, shields, gowns and other medical supplies desperately needed to protect front-line medical workers treating coronavirus patients.

The Department of Health and Human Services told The Associated Press Wednesday that the federal stockpile was in the process of deploying all remaining personal protective equipment in its inventory.

The HHS statement confirms&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/6827959-Medical-supplies-distribution.html" target="_blank">federal documents</a>&nbsp;released Wednesday by the House Oversight and Reform Committee showing that about 90% of the personal protective equipment in the stockpile has been distributed to state and local governments.

HHS spokeswoman Katie McKeogh said the remaining 10% will be kept in reserve to support federal response efforts.

House Oversight Chairwoman Carolyn B. Maloney, D-N.Y., said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://oversight.house.gov/news/press-releases/new-document-shows-inadequate-distribution-of-personal-protective-equipment-and" target="_blank">statement</a>&nbsp;that the Trump administration is leaving states to scour the open market for scarce supplies, often competing with each other and federal agencies in a chaotic bidding war that drives up prices.

“The President failed to bring in FEMA (the Federal Emergency Management Agency) early on, failed to name a national commander for this crisis, and failed to fully utilize the authorities Congress gave him under the Defense Production Act to procure and manage the distribution of critical supplies,” Maloney said. “He must take action now to address these deficiencies.”

For the last month, health care workers across the nation have taken to social media to illustrate the shortages by taking selfies wearing home-sewn masks on their faces and trash bags over their scrubs.

President Donald Trump has faulted the states for not better preparing for the pandemic and has said they should only being relying on the federal stockpile as a last resort.

The AP&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/090600c299a8cf07f5b44d92534856bc">reported</a>&nbsp;Sunday that the Trump administration squandered nearly two months after the early January warnings that COVID-19 might ignite a global pandemic, waiting until mid-March to place bulk orders of N95 masks and other medical supplies needed to build up the stockpile. By then, hospitals in several states were treating thousands of infected patients without adequate equipment and were pleading for help.

Trump spent the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/09985ba2784e553d69c7f194960de94f">first two months</a>&nbsp;of the outbreak playing down the threat from the new virus. He derided warnings of a pandemic as a hoax perpetrated by Democrats and the media, predicting as late as Feb. 26 that the number of U.S. cases would soon drop to zero.

The stockpile was created in 1999 to prevent supply-chain disruptions for the predicted Y2K computer problems. It expanded after 9/11 to prepare for chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear attacks. Congress provided money in 2006 to prepare for a potential influenza pandemic, though much of that stock was used during the H1N1 flu outbreak three years later.

At the start of the COVID-19 crisis, the federal stockpile had about 13 million N95 respirators, masks which filter out about 95% of all liquid or airborne particles and are critical to prevent health care workers from becoming infected. That’s just a small fraction of what hospitals need to protect their workers, who normally would wear a new mask for each patient, but who now are often issued only one to last for days.

Federal contracting records show HHS made an initial bulk order of N95 masks on March 12, followed by larger orders on March 21. But those contracts won’t yield big deliveries to the national stockpile until the end of April, after the White House has projected the pandemic will reach its peak.

For nearly a month, Trump rebuffed calls to use his authority under the Defense Production Act to order companies to increase production of respirators and ventilators, before he relented last week.

Asked about the AP report, the president suggested Sunday the states should be thankful for the shipments of supplies they have gotten.

“FEMA, the military, what they’ve done is a miracle,” Trump said. “What they’ve done is a miracle in getting all of this stuff. What they have done for states is incredible.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586430652281.png" alt="PPE distribution on Wednesday in Missouri -photo office of Missouri governor" />
 <figcaption>PPE distribution on Wednesday in Missouri -photo office of Missouri governor</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Strategic National Stockpile is nearly out of the N95 respirators, surgical masks, face, shields, gowns and other medical supplies desperately needed to protect front-line medical workers treating coronavirus patients.The Department of Health and Human Services told The Associated Press Wednesday that the federal stockpile was in the process of deploying all remaining personal protective equipment in its inventory.The HHS statement confirms&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/6827959-Medical-supplies-distribution.html" target="_blank">federal documents</a>&nbsp;released Wednesday by the House Oversight and Reform Committee showing that about 90% of the personal protective equipment in the stockpile has been distributed to state and local governments.HHS spokeswoman Katie McKeogh said the remaining 10% will be kept in reserve to support federal response efforts.House Oversight Chairwoman Carolyn B. Maloney, D-N.Y., said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://oversight.house.gov/news/press-releases/new-document-shows-inadequate-distribution-of-personal-protective-equipment-and" target="_blank">statement</a>&nbsp;that the Trump administration is leaving states to scour the open market for scarce supplies, often competing with each other and federal agencies in a chaotic bidding war that drives up prices.“The President failed to bring in FEMA (the Federal Emergency Management Agency) early on, failed to name a national commander for this crisis, and failed to fully utilize the authorities Congress gave him under the Defense Production Act to procure and manage the distribution of critical supplies,” Maloney said. “He must take action now to address these deficiencies.”For the last month, health care workers across the nation have taken to social media to illustrate the shortages by taking selfies wearing home-sewn masks on their faces and trash bags over their scrubs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586209464100.png" alt="President Trump answering questions during Tuesday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing" />
 <figcaption>President Trump answering questions during Tuesday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing</figcaption>
 </figure>President Donald Trump has faulted the states for not better preparing for the pandemic and has said they should only being relying on the federal stockpile as a last resort.The AP&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/090600c299a8cf07f5b44d92534856bc">reported</a>&nbsp;Sunday that the Trump administration squandered nearly two months after the early January warnings that COVID-19 might ignite a global pandemic, waiting until mid-March to place bulk orders of N95 masks and other medical supplies needed to build up the stockpile. By then, hospitals in several states were treating thousands of infected patients without adequate equipment and were pleading for help.Trump spent the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/09985ba2784e553d69c7f194960de94f">first two months</a>&nbsp;of the outbreak playing down the threat from the new virus. He derided warnings of a pandemic as a hoax perpetrated by Democrats and the media, predicting as late as Feb. 26 that the number of U.S. cases would soon drop to zero.The stockpile was created in 1999 to prevent supply-chain disruptions for the predicted Y2K computer problems. It expanded after 9/11 to prepare for chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear attacks. Congress provided money in 2006 to prepare for a potential influenza pandemic, though much of that stock was used during the H1N1 flu outbreak three years later.At the start of the COVID-19 crisis, the federal stockpile had about 13 million N95 respirators, masks which filter out about 95% of all liquid or airborne particles and are critical to prevent health care workers from becoming infected. That’s just a small fraction of what hospitals need to protect their workers, who normally would wear a new mask for each patient, but who now are often issued only one to last for days.Federal contracting records show HHS made an initial bulk order of N95 masks on March 12, followed by larger orders on March 21. But those contracts won’t yield big deliveries to the national stockpile until the end of April, after the White House has projected the pandemic will reach its peak.For nearly a month, Trump rebuffed calls to use his authority under the Defense Production Act to order companies to increase production of respirators and ventilators, before he relented last week.Asked about the AP report, the president suggested Sunday the states should be thankful for the shipments of supplies they have gotten.“FEMA, the military, what they’ve done is a miracle,” Trump said. “What they’ve done is a miracle in getting all of this stuff. What they have done for states is incredible.”

HHS: Federal stocks of protective equipment nearly depleted

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued new guidelines for essential workers, such as those in the health care and food supply industries. The guidance is focused on when those workers can return to work after having been exposed to the new coronavirus.

— Do take your temperature before work.

— Do practice social distancing as work duties permit.

— Don’t stay at work if you become sick

— Don’t share headsets or objects used near face.

— Don’t congregate in the break room or other crowded places.

The CDC also issued guidance for employers in essential industries.

— Do increase the frequency of cleaning commonly touched surfaces.

— Do increase air exchange in the building.

— Do send sick workers home immediately.

— Do test the use of face masks to ensure they don’t interfere with workflow.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586391131314.png" alt="Dr. Robert Redfield, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention during Wednesday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Robert Redfield, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention during Wednesday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued new guidelines for essential workers, such as those in the health care and food supply industries. The guidance is focused on when those workers can return to work after having been exposed to the new coronavirus.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586391294022.png" alt="CDC" />
 <figcaption>CDC</figcaption>
 </figure>— Do take your temperature before work.— Do wear a face mask at all times.— Do practice social distancing as work duties permit.— Don’t stay at work if you become sick— Don’t share headsets or objects used near face.— Don’t congregate in the break room or other crowded places.The CDC also issued guidance for employers in essential industries.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586391231224.png" alt="CDC" />
 <figcaption>CDC</figcaption>
 </figure>— Do increase the frequency of cleaning commonly touched surfaces.— Do increase air exchange in the building.— Do send sick workers home immediately.— Do test the use of face masks to ensure they don’t interfere with workflow.

New CDC guidance for essential workers, employers during coronavirus

TOPEKA — Governor Laura Kelly discussed the dramatic increase in coronavirus deaths in Kansas during her daily press conference. Kansas saw a 41 percent jump in coronavirus&nbsp; deaths Wednesday to 38, according to the KDHE.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The governor and KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman also responded to the statement by&nbsp; the Kansas Attorney General who told police <a href="https://ag.ks.gov/media-center/news-releases/2020/04/08/ag-derek-schmidt-kansans-should-comply-with-governor-s-order-limiting-religious-gatherings-during-pandemic-but-cannot-be-arrested-prosecuted-or-imprisoned-for-worshiping">not to enforce the governor's order on religious gatherings</a>&nbsp;and lawmakers who overturned the order restricting the size of religious gatherings amid the pandemic.

TOPEKA — Governor Laura Kelly discussed the dramatic increase in coronavirus deaths in Kansas during her daily press conference. Kansas saw a 41 percent jump in coronavirus&nbsp; deaths Wednesday to 38, according to the KDHE.&nbsp;&nbsp;The governor and KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman also responded to the statement by&nbsp; the Kansas Attorney General who told police <a href="https://ag.ks.gov/media-center/news-releases/2020/04/08/ag-derek-schmidt-kansans-should-comply-with-governor-s-order-limiting-religious-gatherings-during-pandemic-but-cannot-be-arrested-prosecuted-or-imprisoned-for-worshiping">not to enforce the governor's order on religious gatherings</a>&nbsp;and lawmakers who overturned the order restricting the size of religious gatherings amid the pandemic.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovLauraKelly%2Fvideos%2F1037628039966755%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

🎥  Gov. Kelly on dramatic increase of virus deaths in Kansas

OVERLAND PARK, KAN.&nbsp;(AP) — Officials in Overland Park have announced the suburban&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;City community’s farmers market will not open this weekend as planned in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19.

City officials announced the markets’ postponed opening on Tuesday under pressure from the public, the Kansas City Star reported. The city had been planning to open the market for the season on Saturday, even as other Johnson County cities decided to postpone their own markets.

The city had made several changes in an effort to address health concerns — including canceling children's events and moving the event to a parking lot to give more space between vendors. But the event draws thousands of shoppers, making it difficult to keep people six feet apart and enforce safety protocols.

The city heard from several concerned residents, especially as the number of coronavirus cases rapidly grows in Johnson County, city spokesman Sean Reilly.

“Despite the efforts we’ve gone through with the safety and health protocols, we still heard from people who were concerned about the health of the public and vendors,” Reilly said. “So we heard them, listened to them and decided we would go ahead and close it.”

Reilly said the farmers market will open after Kansas' stay-at-home order is lifted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586358248415.png" alt="Image courtesy Overland Park Farmers Market" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Overland Park Farmers Market</figcaption>
 </figure>OVERLAND PARK, KAN.&nbsp;(AP) — Officials in Overland Park have announced the suburban&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;City community’s farmers market will not open this weekend as planned in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19.City officials announced the markets’ postponed opening on Tuesday under pressure from the public, the Kansas City Star reported. The city had been planning to open the market for the season on Saturday, even as other Johnson County cities decided to postpone their own markets.The city had made several changes in an effort to address health concerns — including canceling children's events and moving the event to a parking lot to give more space between vendors. But the event draws thousands of shoppers, making it difficult to keep people six feet apart and enforce safety protocols.The city heard from several concerned residents, especially as the number of coronavirus cases rapidly grows in Johnson County, city spokesman Sean Reilly.“Despite the efforts we’ve gone through with the safety and health protocols, we still heard from people who were concerned about the health of the public and vendors,” Reilly said. “So we heard them, listened to them and decided we would go ahead and close it.”Reilly said the farmers market will open after Kansas' stay-at-home order is lifted.

Coronavirus response varied among Kansas farmers markets

Here's Wednesday's COVID-19 update from Saline County.

The Saline County Health Department has been notified of one additional positive COVID-19 case in a Saline County resident.

• This case is a male in his 60’s with known contacts to a positive case.

This additional case brings the total to 8 in Saline County. At 4:30 pm, Governor Kelly reported a total of 1046 cases in Kansas and 38 deaths. This is an increase of 146 positive cases in Kansas from yesterday.

As Dr. Norman from KDHE stated in today’s press conference, this is the largest increase in positive cases and deaths in Kansas in a day. “We are about to enter into the peak of this pandemic, now is not the time to let your guard down,” he stated.

Governor Kelly’s Statewide Stay-at-Home order 20-16 is still in effect. The Governor’s order does allow for restaurants and bars to provide curbside service, take out, and delivery only. Visit <a href="http://www.governor.kansas.gov/keff">www.governor.kansas.gov/keff</a> to see frequently asked questions on essential businesses and functions under the Governor’s order.

• The Department for Children and Families issued a press release announcing the steps their agency is taking to temporarily ease restrictions on Kansans who are currently receiving or applying for food assistance.

• We have begun to see an uptick in the amount of scam-like activity. Text messages with claims that a person is a close contact, selling of fake tests, fake stimulus check information, and robocalls. The Saline County Health Department will not send text messages to potential close contacts. Do not click on unknown links from unknown sources. Suspected scams can be reported to <a href="http://www.usa.gov/stop-scams-frauds">www.usa.gov/stop-scams-frauds</a>.

Here's Wednesday's COVID-19 update from Saline County.The Saline County Health Department has been notified of one additional positive COVID-19 case in a Saline County resident.• This case is a male in his 60’s with known contacts to a positive case.This additional case brings the total to 8 in Saline County. At 4:30 pm, Governor Kelly reported a total of 1046 cases in Kansas and 38 deaths. This is an increase of 146 positive cases in Kansas from yesterday.As Dr. Norman from KDHE stated in today’s press conference, this is the largest increase in positive cases and deaths in Kansas in a day. “We are about to enter into the peak of this pandemic, now is not the time to let your guard down,” he stated.Governor Kelly’s Statewide Stay-at-Home order 20-16 is still in effect. The Governor’s order does allow for restaurants and bars to provide curbside service, take out, and delivery only. Visit <a href="http://www.governor.kansas.gov/keff">www.governor.kansas.gov/keff</a> to see frequently asked questions on essential businesses and functions under the Governor’s order.Announcements:• The Department for Children and Families issued a press release announcing the steps their agency is taking to temporarily ease restrictions on Kansans who are currently receiving or applying for food assistance.• We have begun to see an uptick in the amount of scam-like activity. Text messages with claims that a person is a close contact, selling of fake tests, fake stimulus check information, and robocalls. The Saline County Health Department will not send text messages to potential close contacts. Do not click on unknown links from unknown sources. Suspected scams can be reported to <a href="http://www.usa.gov/stop-scams-frauds">www.usa.gov/stop-scams-frauds</a>.Help our community in stopping the spread of this virus. Only follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>. Stay Safe, Stay Healthy and Stay at Home.

Saline County reports 8th confirmed case of COVID-19

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Gov. Laura Kelly’s executive order restricting the size of religious gatherings amid the coronavirus outbreak has been overturned after the state’s top prosecutor said it likely violates the state constitution.

The Legislative Coordinating Council voted 5-2 Wednesday to undo the order that limited in-person religious services and funerals to 10 people. The move came after Attorney General Derek Schmidt, a Republican, said that while the order was “sound public-health advice that Kansans should follow,” he was discouraging law enforcement agencies and prosecutors statewide from attempting to enforce the requirements.

Governor Laura Kelly during Tuesday's news conference

With Easter approaching, Kelly, a Democrat, issued the order Tuesday because of three outbreaks that had been connected to religious gatherings. Dr. Lee Norman, the state health department’s head, said 165 had been sickened in those outbreaks.

“In our view, Kansas statute and the Kansas Constitution’s Bill of Rights each forbid the governor from criminalizing participation in worship gatherings by executive order,” wrote Schmidt, adding that Kansas statutory and constitutional law provide substantially more protection for religious freedoms than does federal law.

Statewide, the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 grew Wednesday to 1,008, up from 900 Tuesday, with 38 deaths.

By HEATHER HOLLINGSWORTHKANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Gov. Laura Kelly’s executive order restricting the size of religious gatherings amid the coronavirus outbreak has been overturned after the state’s top prosecutor said it likely violates the state constitution.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ksleg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ksleg</a> <a href="https://t.co/pHrW7sAiqY">pic.twitter.com/pHrW7sAiqY</a>&mdash; Speaker Ryckman (@RonRyckman) <a href="https://twitter.com/RonRyckman/status/1247989645973032960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Legislative Coordinating Council voted 5-2 Wednesday to undo the order that limited in-person religious services and funerals to 10 people. The move came after Attorney General Derek Schmidt, a Republican, said that while the order was “sound public-health advice that Kansans should follow,” he was discouraging law enforcement agencies and prosecutors statewide from attempting to enforce the requirements.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586287905649.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Governor Laura Kelly during Tuesday's news conferenceWith Easter approaching, Kelly, a Democrat, issued the order Tuesday because of three outbreaks that had been connected to religious gatherings. Dr. Lee Norman, the state health department’s head, said 165 had been sickened in those outbreaks.“In our view, Kansas statute and the Kansas Constitution’s Bill of Rights each forbid the governor from criminalizing participation in worship gatherings by executive order,” wrote Schmidt, adding that Kansas statutory and constitutional law provide substantially more protection for religious freedoms than does federal law.Statewide, the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 grew Wednesday to 1,008, up from 900 Tuesday, with 38 deaths.The sickened include 56 patients and staff members at the Riverbend Post Acute Rehabilitation in Kansas City, Kansas. Six have died and seven are hospitalized, health officials with the Unified Government of Wyandotte County said Wednesday.State health officials are monitoring the outbreak. Previously that state’s largest outbreak had been at the Life Care Center of Burlington, where 41 residents and one staff member have tested positive. One resident at that facility has died.Most infected people develop mild or moderate symptoms that clear up within three weeks, such as fever and cough. But older adults and people with existing health problems are particularly susceptible to more severe illness, including pneumonia.----------By STEPHEN KORANDA &amp; CELIA LLOPIS-JEPSEN, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-lawmakers-wiped-out-gov-laura-kellys-covid-19-ban-big-church-gatherings#stream/0">Kansas News Service</a>TOPEKA, Kansas — Kansas Republican leadership 
seemingly had enough of Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s executive orders, 
with a limit on church gatherings marking the final straw.The 
Legislative Coordinating Council voted 5-2 Wednesday to strip the state 
of any ban on the number of people who could gather at one time to stop 
the spread of the coronavirus.No more than 10 people have been 
allowed to gather for a while, but on Tuesday, Kelly specified that it 
would apply to churches and funerals. Kansas officials have said three 
clusters of coronavirus have been directly tied to church services, 
leading to 165 illnesses and 12 deaths.Plus, Easter is this Sunday, and the decision rankled Republican leadership.“I
 can’t approve this,” said Senate President Susan Wagle, who often 
clashes with Kelly. “We did take an oath to uphold (religious freedoms 
in the constitution).”It is now up to Kelly whether to establish
 another order that limits gatherings. She delayed an afternoon news 
conference as soon as the LCC’s vote happened.Kansas House 
Speaker Pro Tem Finch said he hoped everyone will stay home, adding that
 it isn’t worth the risk to go to a church service this weekend and 
thanked church leaders for holding online services.Those who 
voted to overturn the executive order, via conference call, were Wagle, 
Finch, Senate Majority Leader Jim Denning, House Speaker Ron Ryckman and
 House Majority Leader Dan Hawkins. The two Democrats, Sen. Anthony 
Hensley and House Rep. Tom Sawyer, wanted to keep the order.This is a breaking news story and will be updated.Stephen Koranda is the Statehouse reporter for Kansas Public Radio and the Kansas News Service. You can reach him on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/kprkoranda">@kprkoranda</a>.Celia Llopis-Jepsen reports on consumer health and education for the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Celia_LJ">@celia_LJ</a> or email her at celia@kcur.org.

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